How to treat hairline like crack in shower base?

[kya]

We bought our first house recently in one of the shower base it got hair line crack, we don't want to replace (don't know how much it can cost). Want suggestions how it can be treated?

Thanks

 

[EricL]

Hello @kya

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. Thank you so much for joining us and sharing your question about fixing a hairline crack in your shower base.

Congratulations on getting your first home. Before you attempt a repair, would you happen to know how long the crack been there? Does the shower base feel spongy when stepping on it? Does water or bubbles emerge from the hairline crack when stepping on the shower base? If any of these symptoms are present, I'm afraid a simple patch over the hairline crack will not work.

It's possible that water has reached the bottom of the tray and has started pooling. In time the waterproofing membrane will get compromised, and you will get water damage in your shower area. If the shower base is a fiberglass acrylic shower base, it will have to be replaced. Any repair attempted on it will not hold due to the flexing nature of the shower base. If it is an acrylic resin-based tray, it will be hard and unyielding like stone when stepped on. This presents the same issue as the hairline crack will start to travel as you put your weight on the base.

However, if you wish to temporarily seal the hairline crack you can use Selleys 100g Translucent Ezi Press Roof and Gutter Silicone Sealant. You will have to use a Pro Renovator 38mm Plastic Scraper to create a low-level patch over the hairline crack. Please note that this is a stop-gap measure, and this repair will not last very long. I recommend replacing the tray as soon as you can. 

If you need more advice or information, please let us know.

Eric

[kya]

Hi @EricL 

Thanks for your time and reply. I really appreciate your suggestions.

I'm not sure about the type of base and in how much bad condition, it's just what I received in building report.

Can you please advise me, how much it can cost to replace. Does Bunnings provides support?

Thanks

[MitchellMc]

Hi @kya,

Can I please confirm whether this crack is in a pre-formed shower base or a tile? From the colour, I presume it's a tile in the shower that has cracked, and you'll need to have the tile replaced. If you are not sure, please take a photo from further back so we can see the entire base.

If this is a tiled shower base, then you could go over the base with Shower Plug. The issue is that you'll never actually know if the crack is still leaking water through until it's too late and damage has been done. 

I'd suggest that it would be best to have a couple of different tilers come in and give you a quote on the repair. Unfortunately, Bunnings does not offer repair services on showers.

Mitchell

[kya]

Hi @MitchellMc ,

Sorry for the delayed response.

I got the chance to look on this issue yesterday, the crack is in shower base, but I'm not sure what material is of the base. We also don't know for how long this crack is there as it was a rented property before.

Please provide suggestions.

Thanks

[MitchellMc]

Hi @kya,

As mentioned, we'd need more details to be able to assist you further. Any possible repair techniques will depend heavily on what the shower base is made from. If you are unsure of what the material is, could you please take a picture of the entire base so our helpful members can take a look at it for you?

Mitchell

[kya]

Hi @MitchellMc 

Thanks once more!!

I got the chance again today, I have attached few more pics. I hope you have a clear view now.

Thanks

 

[EricL · Accepted solution]

Hello @kya

Thank you for posting the photo of your shower tray. Now that we know that it is an acrylic-based shower tray, can you please tell us if the tray bends or flexes when you step into it? Or is it rock hard solid and does not bend or flex? Your next step is to measure the tray on the outside. Once you have the measurements you can check in-store or online how much this type of shower tray costs. Unfortunately, Bunnings only does full bathroom renovations. It does not have a shower repair service. I suggest engaging the services of a professional plumber and asking for a quote.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[kya]

hi @EricL @MitchellMc 

Tray bends when we stand near to this.

Thanks for your reply, to whom I should contact in Bunnings to get the quote for whole bathroom renovation?

regards

[EricL]

Hello @kya

I suggest visiting your local store and speaking to the In-Store Kitchen Specialist, they also do bathroom design and quotes. Before going please make sure to take pictures of your bathroom and to bring the measurements of the room as well. Please don't forget to measure the size of your shower and vanity as well.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric